Mammillaria lasiacantha facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mammillaria lasiacantha |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Mammillaria
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| Species: |
lasiacantha
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| Synonyms | |
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Mammillaria stella-de-tacubaya − Heese |
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The Mammillaria lasiacantha is a special type of cactus. People often call it the lacespine nipple cactus or the small pincushion cactus. In Spanish, it's known as biznaga de espinas pubescentes. This cactus is part of a big group of plants called Cactoideae. It was first described in 1856 by a scientist named George Engelmann.
Where It Lives
This cactus can be found in many places. It grows in parts of Mexico, like the states of Coahuila and Durango. You can also find it in the United States, in states such as Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Sometimes, it's also seen in other Mexican states like Chihuahua, Nuevo León, San Luis Potosí, Sonora, and Zacatecas.
The Mammillaria lasiacantha loves to grow on rocky ground. It prefers soils that have a lot of limestone. You can find it on hills and flat areas called tablelands. These places are usually desert habitats. This cactus can grow at different heights, from about 700 meters (2,300 feet) up to 2,400 meters (7,900 feet) above sea level.
Why It Needs Protection
Sadly, this beautiful cactus faces some challenges. People sometimes collect it illegally from its natural home. They want to grow it in their gardens as an ornamental plant because it looks unique.
Because of this, the Mammillaria lasiacantha is listed on the IUCN Red List. This list helps track plants and animals that might be in danger. The main threats to this cactus are people taking it without permission for plant sales. Changes in how land is used might also be a problem for its natural habitat. Protecting this cactus helps keep our planet's plant life healthy and diverse.
See also
In Spanish: Mammillaria lasiacantha para niños
